Rate My SPF

Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate

What Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate is & what it does

Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate is a synthetic ester formed from pentaerythritol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it works as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, giving products a light, smooth feel and helping spread the formula evenly. It is also valued as a solvent for UV filters, helping dissolve and stabilize them within the emulsion.

Is Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate safe in skincare?

Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate is widely used as an emollient and is generally regarded as safe and well tolerated in cosmetic formulas. It is a stable ester with a long history of use in lotions, sunscreens, and makeup. As with any ingredient, individual sensitivity is possible, so patch testing is reasonable if your skin reacts easily.

Is Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate comedogenic?

Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate is generally considered low on the comedogenic scale and is often chosen for its light, non-greasy feel. That said, pore-clogging potential varies from person to person and depends on the overall formula. If you are acne-prone, monitoring how your skin responds to a specific product is the most reliable guide.

Is Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate natural or synthetic?

Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate is a synthetic ester, made by combining pentaerythritol with 2-ethylhexanoic acid. It is not a naturally occurring substance, though its building blocks can be sourced in various ways. It is generally suitable for vegans, as it is not animal-derived.

Sunscreens with Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate

We rate 23 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

← All ingredients